Blog

Gout and How to Manage It

Tuesday, 09 December 2025

Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in a joint, most often the big toe. This condition can develop due to high uric acid levels, certain foods, dehydration, or underlying medical issues. Risk factors include family history, obesity, kidney disease, and diets high in red meat or alcohol. Symptoms often include sudden sharp pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, provide relief through targeted treatment, and recommend lifestyle changes to reduce flare ups. If your big toe and surrounding areas are causing you pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose gout, and help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Steady Steps Toward Easing Ankle Arthritis

Tuesday, 02 December 2025

Ankle arthritis can make even familiar routines feel challenging as stiffness and joint pain gradually take hold. This condition often develops after past injuries, long-term overuse, or natural aging of the cartilage that once cushioned the ankle. People may first notice discomfort when getting up in the morning or after walking longer distances. Swelling, reduced flexibility, and difficulty climbing stairs can follow, making the joint feel less reliable. Although simple measures like supportive shoes, activity changes, and gentle stretching can bring relief, symptoms that linger or intensify deserve attention. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of joint wear, offer treatments that ease inflammation, and guide you toward options that protect your mobility. If pain is increasing or your ankle feels less stable during daily activities, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for personalized care.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Sunday, 30 November 2025

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Keeping Senior Feet Healthy and Comfortable

Tuesday, 25 November 2025

As we age, our feet naturally lose cushioning, flexibility, and circulation, making them more vulnerable to pain and injury. Seniors can maintain healthy feet by washing and drying them daily, moisturizing to prevent cracks, and trimming nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. Wearing properly fitted shoes with good support reduces pressure points and improves balance. Regularly checking the feet for sores, swelling, or color changes helps catch problems early, especially for those with diabetes or poor circulation. Gentle stretching and light exercise promote flexibility and blood flow, keeping the feet strong and mobile. A podiatrist can assist with routine foot care for seniors, monitor any underlying conditions, and recommend footwear or custom orthotics, when needed. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you have consistent professional checkups by a podiatrist to help you stay active, comfortable, and independent for years to come.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

Preventing Falls in the Workplace

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

Workplace falls are a common cause of injury and can result from damaged ladders, slippery conditions, unmarked elevation changes, or leaning over guardrails. These accidents can lead to serious foot injuries such as sprains, fractures, or chronic pain that affect mobility and work performance. Prevention begins with choosing the right ladder for the job, using hazard warning signs, and keeping flooring clean and in good condition. A podiatrist can help treat foot injuries sustained from falls through diagnostic imaging, proper care, and targeted exercises to restore strength and stability. If you have experienced a fall affecting your lower extremities, or have lingering foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment to ensure a safe and healthy recovery.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.

Blog

Blog Archives